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Camargo Park

General Info

Park History

In 1927, the City needed material to pave its expanding street system and acquired a gravel pit on the west side of town. The pit was managed by Commissioner of Streets and Parks, Paul Steffler, who preserved a stand of large live oak trees on the site. The shaded area became a gathering place for workers and area residents and soon, church groups and politicians were requesting use of the "park" for their social and political functions.

The park came to be called "Pablo’s Grove," presumably named for Paul (Pablo) Steffler. In 1942, tables were installed for the growing number of picnickers, and in later years, playground equipment, a patio and pavilion were added to the park.

Following the death of local radio personality Mateo Camargo in 1982, a committee was formed to improve Pablo’s Grove and rename it in Camargo’s honor. Camargo was born in Mexico in 1925, studied piano and radio technology, and in the early 1950s was employed by KCOR, San Antonio’s Spanish language radio station. He was a popular broadcaster who showcased the music of Latin America along with news of area politics and civic activities. Camargo and his wife Belia also performed with their popular dance band.

Camargo Park, still popular among residents, was renovated using 1994 Quality of Life bond issue funds. A new playground, lighting, kitchen renovations, and handicap accessibility and parking improvements were included in the project.